Long Form Birth Certificate: What It Includes and When It Is Required
A long form birth certificate is a certified copy of the full birth record on file, rather than a summary of it. Texas describes its long form as a certified copy of the original record that also shows its correction history.
What vital record do you need?
Choose your certificate to start your order.
What it includes
The long form generally shows more detail than a short form or abstract. Missouri says its long form, titled Certificate of Live Birth, includes extra details such as the time of birth when available. Montana describes its long form as a certified scan of the original record kept in its vault. The exact fields depend on the state and the year of birth.
When it is needed
Texas says its long form is required for a U.S. passport, for a driver's license in most states, and for dual citizenship. Montana lists tribal enrollment, apostilles and dual citizenship as uses for its long form. The U.S. Department of State does not use the words long form in its citizenship evidence guidance. It asks that a birth certificate show the place of birth, a seal, the registrar's signature, a filing date within one year of birth and the parents' full names. A long form usually shows these items, but check the instructions for your own application.
Where to get one
The state or county vital records office that holds the record issues it. Indiana notes that a long form must be ordered from the state and not from a county. Rules differ by state, so confirm with the issuing office.
Frequently asked questions
Is a long form the same as a certified copy?
Not exactly. Certified describes how the office issues the copy. Long form describes how much of the record it shows.
Do I need a long form for a passport?
The State Department lists the details a birth certificate must show. Texas says its long form is required for a passport, so check which version your birth state offers.
Can a long form be used for tribal enrollment?
Montana lists tribal enrollment as a use. Always check the tribe's own requirements.
Sources
US Records is a private company and is not a government agency. Government agencies issue certified records; we help you order them.
Written By
US Records TeamThe US Records Team writes and reviews guides on birth, death, marriage and divorce certificates, using state statutes, agency instructions and court records as sources.
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